How can we actively "believe in the gospel" in our personal faith journey? The Call of Mark 1:15 “ ‘The time is fulfilled,’ He said. ‘The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe in the gospel!’ ” What “Believe” Means Here • More than mental assent—trusting the good news as ultimate reality • Continuous action—present imperative in the Greek: keep on believing • Paired with repentance—turning from sin is inseparable from trusting Christ How to Actively Believe in the Gospel Every Day • Review the facts of the gospel often (1 Corinthians 15:3-4) • Personalize the promises—“Christ died for ME” (Galatians 2:20) • Speak the gospel to yourself when guilt hits (Romans 8:1) • Obey promptly when Scripture confronts you (John 14:15) • Choose gospel-centered inputs—music, podcasts, friendships (Philippians 4:8) • Share the message—faith grows as you verbalize it (Philem 6) Practical Rhythms That Keep Faith Active • Morning reset: read a short gospel passage, thank Jesus for finished work • Mid-day check: ask, “Am I relying on my effort or His grace right now?” • Evening audit: confess any unbelief, rejoice in forgiveness (1 John 1:9) Common Barriers & Biblical Corrections • Doubt about worthiness → look to Christ’s sufficiency (2 Corinthians 5:21) • Fear of man → remember God’s favor outweighs human opinion (Psalm 118:6) • Distractions → set minds on things above (Colossians 3:1-2) Encouragement From Other Scriptures • John 6:29—“This is the work of God: to believe in the One He has sent.” • Romans 1:16—The gospel “is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.” • Hebrews 10:23—“Let us hold resolutely to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.” Takeaway Truths • Active belief equals ongoing trust + obedience • Repentance clears space for faith to flourish • The gospel you rehearse is the gospel you will rely on • God’s power meets you in the simple act of believing |
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